By Ayo Kehinde
Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, alleged that operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) raided his offices and private residences in Abuja and Kebbi State.
The allegation was contained in a press statement issued by Malami’s media aide, Mohammed Bello Doka, on Wednesday.
He said the alleged raids occurred shortly after Malami’s office drew public attention to Chapter 9 of the Salami Report, which it claims contains adverse findings against the current EFCC Chairman.
According to the statement, EFCC operatives allegedly carried out coordinated searches of Malami’s Abuja and Kebbi offices, as well as his residences, without prior notice.
It further alleged that documents relating specifically to Chapter 9 of the report were targeted during the operation.
Malami’s office described the development as “deeply alarming,” arguing that the timing of the alleged raids raises serious concerns about intimidation, retaliation and the safety of the former minister and his associates.
The statement placed Nigerians and the international community on notice, alleging that any harm to Malami or members of his team would be attributable to the actions of the anti-graft agency.
It also questioned the legal basis for the alleged operation, asking why the searches followed immediately after public reference to Chapter 9 of the report and why force and secrecy were allegedly employed instead of transparent legal procedures, if the investigation was impartial.
Malami’s office further called on civil society organisations, professional bodies and human rights groups to demand the full release of the Salami Judicial Commission of Inquiry Report, particularly Chapter 9, in the interest of transparency and public accountability.
Reaffirming its position, the statement said Malami remains willing to submit himself to a neutral and lawful process before a court of competent jurisdiction, stressing that intimidation, raids or media trials cannot replace due process and the rule of law.
